The Czech Parliament convened on Thursday morning in response to growing concerns over skyrocketing energy costs, marking the second extraordinary meeting dedicated to addressing this critical issue. Initiated by the ANO opposition movement, this session aimed to stimulate comprehensive discussions, and the coalition approved a program to facilitate dialogue.

The First Deputy Chairman of the ANO movement and Shadow Prime Minister, Karel Havlíček, spearheaded the session, urging the government to move beyond disputes and engage in a thorough conversation about the impending energy costs faced by citizens and businesses in the coming year. Havlíček emphasized the need for proactive solutions, stating, “We know that in the Czech Republic, we have some of the highest prices in Europe.”

In his address, Havlíček called on Prime Minister Petra Fiala to shift the focus towards finding practical solutions rather than dwelling on the past. He stressed the importance of avoiding personal attacks and excuses, emphasizing that people and businesses are eager for forward-looking actions. Havlíček asserted, “People and companies are fed up and are no longer interested in what was but what will be. Let’s try to find a common solution today; the situation is serious, but something can still be done. People expect solutions.”

According to Havlíček, Czech politicians should strive to prevent energy prices from rising in the Czech Republic while falling in other countries. His analysis suggests that approximately 40% of customers could experience a moderate increase in electricity prices next year, while about 15% might face substantial price hikes.

Later in the day, the parliament is expected to reconvene for another extraordinary session, this time focusing on the overtime hours of medical professionals. Led by the government coalition, this initiative aims to address the issue of excessive working hours in the healthcare sector and is scheduled to commence no later than 4 p.m. The consecutive extraordinary sessions underscore the urgency with which the Czech government and parliament are approaching critical issues affecting both the energy sector and healthcare.

Article by Prague Forum